The following records are taken from the Reformed Presbyterian and Covenanter
magazine for September through November of 1876. They were then published from original
manuscripts, detailing early activities of the second American “Reformed Presbytery,”
including efforts to provide ministers for Covenanter societies and newly forming congregations,
as well as to resolve serious problems
and provide for spiritual needs which existed in South Carolina, and to eliminate remaining instances
of slavery which were still found in the church’s membership,
(as seen in numbers 12,
16, and
18.)

2017.09.13::JTKer.

MINUTES OF THE [COMMITTEE OF THE] REFORMED PRESBYTERY.

COPIED FROM THE ORIGINAL FOUND WITH THE PAPERS OF THE LATE
REV. THOMAS DONNELLY.

No. 1.

HOUSE OF J. MCKINNEY, June 27, 1800.

THE Committee of the Reformed Presbytery being met and constituted
by prayer, under the power to them granted by the Presbytery at last
meeting, there sate [sic] Messrs. McKinney and Wylie, ministers, John Burns
and Alexander Glenn, ruling elders.

SAMUEL WYLIE, Mod’r,
J. MCKINNEY, Clerk.

The court appointed Messrs. Black and Wylie, first Sabbath at Curriesbush;
second Sabbath at Harpersfield; the third at Walkil; Mr. Wylie;
the fourth Sabbath at Walkil, the fifth at New York; and then to move on to
Philadelphia, and there continue until next meeting of committee, unless
some urgent circumstance may require a departure from this regulation.

Mr. Black to move on from Walkil, with all possible speed, to Pittsburgh,
having a discretionary power, however, to call at Baltimore, or any
other place on his way where there may be an urgent call for sermon, specifying,
however, his grounds of conduct, &c.; and there labor as conveniency
may require, until the committee may be enabled to take more
specific orders about that part of the church. Mr. McLeod is appointed to
preach first Sabbath, with Mr. McKinney; second at Walkil; third at New
York, and there to continue until the next meeting of committee; spending
his time between York and Walkil, as the case may require.

The committee took into consideration the present state of the congregation
in Galloway and Curriesbush, and find it necessary to call the people
together, and converse with and hear their difficulties, as also state to them
the objections which the church has against their conduct, that so, if possible,
{311}
an end may be put to the existing dispute of said congregations, and if
not, that a foundation may be laid for making a reference to the next
meeting of Presbytery of the full state of said congregation, according to
the powers for this purpose vested in the hands of said committee by the
Presbytery, and appoint that a meeting for this purpose shall take place at
the house of Walter Maxwell[1] upon Monday, the 30th inst., at 3 o’clock in
the afternoon, and that the people concerned shall be apprised of said
meeting. The moderator concluded by prayer.

No. 2.

WALTER MAXWELL's, June 30th, 1800.

The Committee of the Reformed Presbytery being met and constituted
by prayer, there sate in judicature Messrs. Wylie and McKinney, ministers,
Alexander Glenn and John Burns, ruling elders.

The Committee of Presbytery took into consideration the state of the
congregation of Galloway, and received divers papers; and after long reasonings
on the subject, a part of the society of Curriesbush gave in a supplication,
requesting to be still considered as under the care and inspection
of the Reformed Presbytery, and also to receive such admonition, in the
spirit of meekness, as the nature of the case may require. The committee
then agreed that the people should write over a letter to Mr. McKinney,
requesting him to preach among them at whatever time they shall find it
convenient; and also agreeing, upon the petition of the people to the committee,
they will afford them whatever sermon they can until next meeting.
It was agreed that the moderator shall call a pro re nata meeting as
soon as he shall think it convenient.

The moderator concluded with prayer.

No. 3.

LITTLE BRITAIN, Nov. 7th, 1800.

The Committee of the Reformed Presbytery met to-day[3] [pursuant to
the call of the mo]derator. The following [members sate in] judicature:
Revs. Messrs. McKinney and Wylie, ministers; Thomas Johnston and
Robert Beattie, ruling elders.

SAMUEL WYLIE, Mod’r,
J. MCKINNEY, Clerk.

The committee had returned to them this day a call moderated for the
united congregations of New York and Walkil. It was found that the
division among the electors was so nearly equal that the call could not be
proceeded upon on presbyterial principles. Besides, it was further found
that sundry electors had been admitted to vote who could not be considered
as entitled to do so on presbyterial principles. These electors being struck
off, there remained exactly an equal number for Mr. Wylie and Mr. McLeod.
Mr. Wylie, in the meantime, renounced all further concern in said
call, and informed the court that they might take their measures accordingly.
The court then agreed to address those persons who had voted for
Mr. Wylie, whether they would be willing to append their names to the call
for Mr. McLeod, to which they readily consented. There were, however, some
absent, whose willingness to do so was not then known. In order to pay due
respect to their rights and the freedom of election, it was agreed to send
express to their habitations, and to obtain their consent or determination
under their own hand, whether they were, or were not, willing to have
{312}
their names appended to Mr. McLeod’s call. The court agreed to adjourn
until a quarter after 9 o’clock this evening.

The moderator concluded by prayer.

No. 4.

LITTLE BRITAIN, Nov. 7th, 1800.

Pursuant to adjournment, Committee met this evening at a quarter after 9
o’clock, P.M. Same members as in the former sederunt, save only that
Andrew Gifford supplied the place of Thomas Johnston, as ruling elder.

The messengers sent out to inquire at the absent electors anent their willingness
to have their names appended to Mr. McLeod’s call, returned,
under the hands of the individuals, their hearty consent that it should be
so done. The call was accordingly now modified by appending the names
of all the electors to the call for Mr. McLeod; and being thus modified, it
was presented to him by the moderator, for his acceptance. He, however,
hesitated, and requested at least until to-morrow at 10 o’clock, to make up
his mind, which was accordingly granted. The court agreed to adjourn
until to-morrow at 11 o’clock.

The Committee again resumed the business of Mr. McLeod’s call, and
after some reasonings with him on the subject, he consented to accept it
only conditionally. The condition was this: that if he saw some difficulties
which now hung over the business removed by the next meeting of the
committee, he would retain the call; but if otherwise he would return it,
which condition was agreed to by the committee.

He was appointed, to divide his time until next meeting as equally as
possible between Walkil, New York and Philadelphia; and if convenient,
to spend a day or two at New Galloway.

Agreed, that pursuant to presbyterial appointment, the committee have
this day repaired to the Forks of Yough, where, according to previous appointment
for that purpose, the congregation of this vicinity met for the
purpose of choosing a minister. The Rev. James McKinney moderated on
the occasion. After sermon, the form of a blank call was produced, and
the electors being called upon in form, unanimously gave their votes for
Messrs. Samuel Wylie and John Black, to be collegiate ministers over
the charge on the west side of Allegheny Mountains. This part of the
business being ended, the call was, in constituted court, tendered to persons
nominated in the body of the call. Mr. Black accepted the call. Mr.
Wylie accepted only conditionally, reserving to himself the liberty of returning
the call, in a reasonable time, should he not see his way clear to
retain it; and that the Presbytery should be judges of the length of time
necessary for this deliberation.

The committee agreed to call upon Mr. Black to be in readiness to deliver
trial discourses for ordination, on the following subjects, as formerly
intimated to him extra-judicially, and now judicially recognized; and
that they shall be delivered to-morrow at eleven o’clock.
{313}

The committee agree to adjourn until to-morrow at eleven o’clock, then to
meet at this place.

According to adjournment on the preceding evening, the Committee met
this morning, constituted by prayer at eleven o’clock. Rev. James McKinney,
moderator; Samuel Wylie,[5] clerk, Samuel Hays, ruling elder. It was
then agreed on to call on Mr. Black to deliver his trial discourses, which
he did, viz., a lecture from 1 John 4:1-5; and a sermon on Rev. 19:13,
which were sustained, and the ordination appointed at Pittsburgh, Dec. 18,
1800. A petition was received and kept in retentis to next meeting. The
committee adjourned until Dec. 18th, to meet at Pittsburgh.

An inquiry was made if the committee were now ready to go on with the
ordination this day, according to previous appointment. To which it was
unanimously agreed in the affirmative. An officer was then appointed to
read the edict in due form. This being done, the court adjourned.

No. 8.

Same day and place as above.

Six o’clock, P. M. Same members as above.

It was found, according to presbyterial form, necessary to call on Mr.
John Black, formerly a licentiate under the instruction of the Reformed
Presbytery in the United States, and this day ordained to the holy ministry,
to subscribe the formula of questions to which he had given his assent
prior to his ordination. To this motion he agreed, subscribed, and in doing
so, received the right hand of fellowship as a member of the Reformed
Presbytery in North America.

It then became necessary to dispose of the call, which being a collegiate
one, it was agreed that Mr. Black should have it delivered to him, and
have it in keeping until Mr. Wylie’s determination concerning his interest
in said call shall be delivered to the Presbytery, at which time every determination
shall be made about it ———[6]

An inquiry was made by the committee at the heads of the congregation,
what provision was made for the support of Mr. John Black in the exercising
his ministerial labors in this congregation. It was answered that three
commissioners were appointed to speak the mind of the congregation, viz.,
William Gormly, John Anderson and Samuel Wylie. They declared, in
name of the congregation, that they were instructed to oblige the congregation
to pay Mr. Black the sum of 400 silver dollars per annum, until such
time as Mr. Wylie shall finally determine as to his interest in said call; and
that they shall likewise consider how far their generosity may be usefully
called into action in addition, until that time.[7]

The moderator concluded with prayer, and adjourned the court sine die.
{314}

No. 9.

January 28th, 1801.ROCKY CREEK MEETING-HOUSE (widow Edgar’s).

The Committee of the Reformed Presbytery having repaired to South
Carolina, met and constituted by prayer, Rev. Messrs. McKinney and
Wylie, ministers; John Kell and David Stormont, ruling elders.

SAMUEL WYLIE, Mod’r,
THOS. DONNELLY, Clerk.

The committee asked the fullest submission of the session of the congregation
of South Carolina to the committee, and through them to the Reformed
Presbytery in the United States of North America. The committee
then had presented to them a supplication from the congregation and session
of old Dissenters in South Carolina, containing various articles of importance,
which they judged required presbyterial cognizance; which
petition[8] being read, contained the following articles:

1st. We humbly crave that the Reformed Presbytery would proceed immediately
to take Mr. Thomas Donnelly under presbyterial trials for ordination,
and moderate a call to that import, that so we may have an opportunity
of putting a call into his hand. 2d. We crave that we may be
admitted to put a call into the hand of another member of the Reformed
Presbytery, as a colleague with Mr. Donnelly. 3d. We crave that the
Presbytery would proceed to the trials and ordination of some elders over
us, as five of our elders are dead, viz., Samuel Lowridge, Adam Edgar,
John Wyatt, Thomas Morton and James McQuiston; and others, through
age and infirmity, rendered almost unfit for the exercise of that office.
4th. We supplicate the Reformed Presbytery for the celebration of the
Lord’s supper amongst us, and in order thereto for public and private examination
in the different quarters of our connections, at as early a period
as opportunity will admit. 5th. We crave the Reformed Presbytery to
take the Rev. Mr. James McGarragh’s situation under consideration,
relative to the Reformed Presbytery’s former procedure anent his case.
6th. We crave that Mr. Martin be called to the bar of the Presbytery to
answer [for] his disgraceful and immoral conduct.

And we do hereby commissionate and appoint Robert Hemphill and
John McNinch to appear and present and enforce this our supplication to
the Reformed Presbytery, hoping that they will take the above contents
under their serious consideration, according to the import and end thereof.

After considerable reasonings on the subject, the following resolutions
were unanimously acceded to by the committee in relation to the foregoing
supplication:

1. That a call be moderated at the meeting-house near widow Edgar’s,
upon the 5th day of February next, the exercises to begin at 11 o’clock
A.M.

2. That a nomination of elders be made, which was accordingly done as
follows: James Harbison, Alexander Martin, Hugh McQuiston, John
Cunningham, David Smith, John McNinch, John Cooper, William Edgar,
James Montgomery, Robert Black. This nomination was transmitted to
the people among whom said elders were designed to labor, for their elective
concurrence.

The sacrament of the supper was agreed upon, to be dispensed on the
first Sabbath of March.

It was agreed to send a letter to Mr. Martin requesting him to attend
first meeting of committee. Also to send a verbal message to Mr. McGarragh
{315}
to attend first meeting. (It was agreed that the next meeting be held
Feb. 5th) at the same place.[9]

Moderator concluded by prayer.

No. 10.

ROCKY CREEK MEETING-HOUSE, Feb. 5th, 1801.

The Committee of the Reformed Presbytery met and constituted by
prayer. The Revs. Samuel Wylie and James McKinney, ministers; John
Kell and David Stormont, ruling elders.

SAMUEL WYLIE, Mod’r,
THOS. DONNELLY, Clerk.

§ 1. It is agreed that a call has been proceeded in and regularly returned
by the Rev. James McKinney, who was appointed to moderate
therein, for a pastor to labor in the congregation of Covenanters about
Rocky Creek and the vicinity thereof.

§ 2. Agreed that said call be presented to the candidates chosen therein,
viz., Messrs. Wylie and Donnelly, for their acceptance. The candidates
being called, and considerable reasonings had between them and the committee
on the subject—the commissioners of the congregation also having
been heard—the candidates came at length to accept the call on the following
conditions, viz., Mr. Wylie only accepts the call on this express stipulation,
that he may have an opportunity of returning it again at next meeting
of Presbytery if he should find cause, and that without incurring any
blame, either from the Presbytery or people. Mr. Donnelly accepted the
call on this express stipulation, that unless a colleague is provided to assist
him in the congregation, in a reasonable time, he is to have his labors
abridged by having only such part of the present congregation under his
care as he may be able to superintend; to which terms both the committee
and congregation consented.

§ 3. It was agreed that Mr. Donnelly should have presented to him, as
subjects for his preparatory discourses, the following portions of Scripture,
viz., for lecture, Heb. 12:25, ad finem capitis; for a popular sermon,
Zech. 6:13. Which discourses are to be in readiness by Wednesday next,
to be delivered before the committee at this place. And further, should
said discourses be approved, it is agreed that the ordination of Mr. Thomas
Donnelly to the work of the holy ministry should take place at this meeting-house
upon 3d day of March next.

§ 4. Agreed that there has this day been made to the committee a return
of the elders formerly nominated by the session, as duly chosen by the
people, with some small variation by substituting one person in the room of,
a former nominee which alter(ation)[10] was approved of by the committee,
and the elders elect ordered to attend for examination, at this place, on
Wednesday, first.

§ 5. It was agreed that the following distribution of ministerial labors
should be made, until the sacrament:

Mr. McKinney to be first Sabbath at Winsborough; second, at Beaver
Dam; third, at the meeting-house near widow Edgar’s. Mr. Wylie to be first
Sabbath, at Robert Hemphill’s; second and third, over Cataba river. Mr.
Donnelly to be first Sabbath with Mr. Wylie; second and third, over
Broad river.

§ 6. Agreed that the sacrament of the supper be essayed at this place on
the first Sabbath of March next. The order to be observed on that occasion,
as follows:

§ 7. Agreed, that a formal summons be sent by the hands of John Kell,
{316}
Sr., and John Rock, to the Rev. Wm. Martin, which was (tendered)[11] in
the following expressions: “Sir, you are hereby required to appear personally
before the committee of the Reformed Presbytery, to meet at the meeting-house
near W. Edgar’s, upon Wednesday, the 11th inst, to answer for
your withdrawing from the Reformed Presbytery. Signed this 5th day of
February, 1801.
S.B. WYLIE, Mod’r.”

§ 8. Mr. McGarragh appeared before the committee, after his case had
been introduced by a member of the court. The court, inquired into his
present standing, in relation to this church, and found that, besides the
suspension from ministerial functions, under which he still continues by a
former presbyterial deed, there were also lying against him charges which
had disqualified him for Christian communion. The committee inquired
into the reasons why this latter difficulty had not been removed; and were
informed by Mr. McGarragh that he had not clearness to submit to censure
from the committee at the time they adjudged it, rebus tunc sic stantibus.
When inquiring into and discussing the previous impediments lying
in the way of submission, they were so far (generally)[12] disposed of, as that
Mr. McGarragh agreed he would submit to the former deed of committee
respecting his censure. He was then accordingly presbyterially rebuked i
by the moderator, admonished, and restored to privilege.

The committee appoint next meeting at this place Wednesday next,
11th inst.

Moderator concluded with prayer.

No. 11.

MEETING-HOUSE at WIDOW EDGAR’s, Feb 11th, 1801.

The Committee of the Reformed Presbytery being met and constituted
with prayer. Messrs. McKinney and Wylie, ministers; John Rock and
Robert Hemphill, ruling elders.

SAMUEL WYLIE, Mod’r,
THOS. DONNELLY, Clerk.

§ 1. The committee agreed to take up, first, the minute respecting Mr.
Donnelly’s discourses. He was called upon to see if he was in readiness to
deliver his discourses. He answered in the affirmative, and accordingly
proceeded to deliver them in the order prescribed. After the delivery, the
court inquired what mode of progress through the remaining business
should be adopted. It was then agreed to proceed in judging the discourses,
just now delivered, which, after some remarks upon them by the
members, were agreed to be sustained, and the moderator ordered to intimate
the same to Mr. Donnelly, with some (corrections)[13].

§ 2. A letter having been received from Mr. McGarragh purporting
some difficulties in his way respecting enjoying Christian communion, and
craving help in the premises, the committee agreed that a meeting of session
be held at John Kell’s on Friday first, to inquire into whatever may
be supposed to affect the Christian character of the said Mr. McGarragh,
and act as the case may require.

§ 3. It was agreed that the former meeting respecting the disposal of ministerial
labors should be so far altered, that Mr. McKinney shall preach on
the preparation Sabbath at Little River, and Mr. Wylie at the Rocky
Creek meeting-house.

§ 4. Mr. Martin appeared, according to the summons of the Presbytery,
but as he desired some private conversation with the members, and as the
day was far spent, the committee waived the consideration of his affair
upon his promising to attend the next meeting of committee.
{317}

§ 5. A petition came in requesting a reconsideration of the business respecting
slaveholders, so far as that species of traffic might be supposed to
affect Christian communion, and that such steps might be taken, in the premises,
as should place the whole affair on such a moral basis as the principles
of our common profession seem imperiously to demand. It was agreed,
prior to the further consideration of this subject, that all slaveholders in
the communion of the church should be warned to attend the next meeting
of committee; and that then the merits of the petition aforementioned
shall be particularly attended to.

Next meeting of committee at widow Smith’s, on Wednesday, 18th inst.

Moderator concluded with prayer.
{341}

No. 12.

WIDOW SMITH’s, Feb 18th, 1801.

The committee of the Reformed Presbytery being met and constituted by
prayer. Messrs. Wylie and McKinney, ministers; Hugh McMillan and
Archibald Coulter, ruling elders.

SAMUEL WYLIE, Mod’r,
J. MCKINNEY, Clerk.

§ 1. The affairs of Mr. Martin were introduced to-day into the committee,
and his submission to it solemnly asked and obtained; and after long reasonings
on the subject, it was at last agreed that an opportunity be held out,
and intimation made both to Mr. Martin and the congregation of Covenanters
about Rocky Creek, to produce any documents that may cast light
upon the committee’s duty in regard to the affairs of Mr. Martin, and especially
his restoration to a friendly intercourse with this church.

§ 2. A petition was received from Georgia requesting some ministerial
assistance; but the committee found that they could not give full scope to
their deliberations until after Mr. Donnelly’s ordination, which is in contemplation,
and therefore agree to keep said petition in retentis until after
that event takes place.

§ 3. The consideration of the state of the enslaved Africans was introduced
this day into the committee. The purport of the discussion was to
ascertain whether those who concurred, more or less, in the enslavement of
these miserable subjects, should be considered as entitled to communion in
the church. It was unanimously agreed, that enslaving these, our African
brethren, is an evil of enormous magnitude, and that none who continue in
such a gross departure from humanity and the dictates of our benevolent
religion, can have any just title to communion in this church. Moreover,
in order to point out the modes of carrying this matter into execution, it
was agreed to send the following note to the persons concerned, who are
not here this day, viz.:

“Sir: You are hereby informed that none can have communion in this
church who hold slaves. You must therefore immediately have it registered,
legally, that your slaves are freed before the sacrament. If any
difficulty arises to you in the manner of doing it, then you are desired to
apply to the committee of Presbytery, who will give directions in any circumstances
of a doubtful nature in which you may be involved, in carrying
this injunction into execution.”

§ 4. The affair subsisting between J. Kell and Mr. James McGarragh
wherein the latter charges the former as a calumniator, inasmuch as he,
viz., J. Kell, failed in the probation of a libel given in against Mr.
McGarragh. After some reasoning on the subject, it was found that the
matter could not be overtaken to-day, and therefore is kept in retentis until
next meeting, when J. Kell is required to attend to answer such things as
may be objected to him in the premises.

§ 5. The committee found that the case of the Rev. James McGarragh,
a member of the Reformed Presbytery in Ireland, formerly and
latterly minister of the Covenanter congregation about Rocky Creek,
loudly called for their consideration. The court found that said Rev.
James McGarragh had, on the 24th of June, 1795, been for sundry reasons
suspended from exercising the office of the holy ministry in all its parts,
{342}
for the space of one-quarter of a year, by the committee of the Reformed
Presbytery then existing in South Carolina, and that said suspension, as to
its continuance longer, depended on certain circumstances, which could not
then fall under the court’s cognizance, and further finding that through
various new occurrences said suspension has been continued to this day,
the court taking all these things into consideration, found it necessary to
set forward in some expedient calculated to place this affair on a presbyterial
basis. After considerable reasoning on the subject, the court agreed
to suspend further proceedings in the premises until next meeting, enjoining
on each member to revolve in his mind this important subject, that he
may by that time be the more distinctly prepared to deliver his mind there-anent.

The court agree that their next meeting shall be at the meeting-house
near widow Edgar’s on the 27th inst.

Moderator concluded with prayer.

No. 13.

ROCKY CREEK MEETING-HOUSE, near W. E.’s, Feb. 27th, 1801.

The committee of the Reformed Presbytery being met and constituted
by prayer. Revs. Messrs. McKinney and Wylie, ministers; John Cunningham
and John McNinch, ruling elders.

SAMUEL WYLIE, Mod.
THOS. DONNELLY, Clerk.

§ 1. The affair of Mr. Martin was again resumed, but he not appearing,
the court inquired if there were any documents from any quarter which
might cast light on the committee’s duty respecting him. There were
then two separate given in, duly signed, respecting Mr. Martin’s moral
character. The papers were read, and it was agreed to send a copy of
said papers to Mr. Martin, with certification, under the moderator and
clerk’s hand, that if he, the said Mr. Martin, does not appear at the
next committee, they will proceed to bring the affairs concerning him
to an issue, so far as this church and he are concerned.

§ 2. The petition from Georgia is kept in retentis until next meeting.

§ 3. At a quarter after one o’clock, Mr. Martin appeared in court, and
as he had not been desired to attend at any given hour, the committee,
although they had dismissed his case for this time, found cause, on his
appearance, to resume it. He was asked if it was his desire that the
matter should be taken up this day; to which question he replied in
the affirmative. The committee then read a second time to Mr. Martin the
papers given in against him, and much reasoning thereon, to ascertain how
far this matter would be granted or refused by Mr. Martin. After considerable
time spent this way it was agreed to give Mr. Martin a copy
of said papers, and suspend further proceedings on the business until
next meeting.

§ 4. The affair respecting Mr. McGarragh was brought to a compromise
by Mr. McGarragh’s withdrawing his motion respecting the differences
between him and James Kell, inasmuch as it appears that
although he had failed to prove his libel against Mr. McGarragh, there
was nevertheless such evidence as convinced the committee, that he, viz.,
J. Kell, had not worked as a calumniator. The affair respecting Mr.
McGarragh’s suspension kept in retentis until the next meeting. The
committee appoint their next meeting Tuesday 1st, at this place.

The moderator concluded, &c.

No. 14.

MEETING, March 3d, 1801.

The committee of the Reformed Presbytery being met and constituted
{343}
by prayer. Messrs. Samuel Wylie and James McKinney, ministers;
John Kell and David Smith, ruling elders.

SAMUEL WYLIE, Mod’r,
J. MCKINNEY, Clerk.

The day for the ordination of Mr. Thomas Donnelly[14] being now
come, the committee inquired if there were any objections known to any
member why the business should not be proceeded in. It was agreed
that none was known. David Smith was then appointed officer pro tempore
to repair to the tent and there read the edict three times at proper intervals,
and return it again. After a due time spent for the reading
of the edict, the officer returned with due probation of its having been
read three times and no objection offered. The committee then agreed
to repair, in their constitute capacity, to the tent in their constitute
capacity,[15] and progress in the ordination, where Mr. Wylie delivered a
sermon introductory on Rev. 1:16; Mr. McKinney then took the place
and proceeded to read the formula, ordain and lay on the charge, and
concluded with an exhortatory sermon from 2d Kings 2:9. The public
work being finished in the usual form, the committee repaired to the
meeting house and there gave to Mr. Donnelly the right hand of fellowship,
as member of court. The committee agree their next meeting
shall be to-morrow, the 4th inst., at this place.

The moderator concluded with prayer.

No. 15.

MEETING-HOUSE (W.E)., ROCKY CREEK March 4th, 1801.

The committee of the Reformed Presbytery being met and constituted
by prayer. Messrs. McKinney, Wylie and Donnelly, ministers; John
Kell, John Rock and James Harbison, ruling elders.

SAMUEL WYLIE, Mod’r,
JAMES MCKINNEY, Clerk.

§ 1. The committee called upon Mr. Thomas Donnelly to subscribe the
formula of questions to which he had given his assent at his ordination,
which he accordingly did in publico foro, and was voted to the chair unanimously,
as moderator.

§ 2. The committee inquired at the congregation what provision was made
for the support of the Rev. Thomas Donnelly, to labor in the congregation
to which he has now been ordained. The committee were then answered
by the commissioners, viz., Thomas Neil and John Cunningham, that they
were entitled and duly commissioned to pledge the honor and veracity of
the congregation to pay Mr. Donnelly the sum of 260 dollars at least, per
annum; and that they would consider themselves in duty bound to consider
from time to time what augmentation his exigencies and their circumstances
might point out as necessary to be made. It was then motioned to
Mr. Donnelly, whether he was satisfied with this proposal; to which he
readily answered in the affirmative.

§ 3. The petition from Georgia was resumed, and it was agreed that Mr.
Donnelly repair there as soon as possible, and visit that people and see
into their state; and as soon as information on that head can be obtained,
that the people of Rocky Creek, and of Georgia, should become united
under the inspection of Mr. Donnelly, if the thing is found practicable,
but if not, that Mr. Donnelly shall, with all convenient speed, transmit
to the Presbytery the state of said people, that they may, as soon as possible,
be supplied.
{344}

§ 4. The court took into consideration the affair respecting Mr. Martin,
and after long reasonings on the subject, came to the determination that
more minute evidence on some of the charges ought to be sought and obtained,
if possible, and that regular summonses be issued for that purpose.

§ 5. The affair respecting Mr. McGarragh’s suspension was again resumed,
and after some deliberation, it was agreed to continue the suspension
some time longer, to try what evidence may appear of firmness and regularity
in his moral deportment, with certification that should any instances
take place, of inattention in the above quarter, it will, in probability, tie
up the court’s hands from exercising their favorable designs, to which they
(are) at present strongly determined.

The court appointed their next meeting at the house of John Kell,
March 12th, 1801. The moderator concluded with prayer.

No. 16.

JOHN KELL’s, March 12th, 1801.

The committee of the Reformed Presbytery being met and constituted
by prayer, sederunt. Revs. Messrs. McKinney, Wylie and Donnelly, ministers;
John Kell, John Rock and James Harbison, ruling elders.

THOS. DONNELLY, Mod’r.
J. MCKINNEY, Clerk.

The affair of Mr. Martin was again resumed, and two witnesses called
upon a certain charge in the libel against Mr. Martin (viz., intemperance
at the house of Joseph Telfair), which was not proven at last meeting,
nor admitted. On this charge there appeared Joseph Telfair and Jane
Martin. Jane Martin offered to swear that from the general tenor of Mr.
Martin’s conduct in the house of Mr. Telfair, and at his departure, but
that he was in some degree intoxicated. Joseph Telfair likewise admitted
that in helping him down the stair at his door, he had not only a view to
his old age, but also had some suspicion that he was something affected with
liquor. Mr. Martin was inquired at whether he required the witnesses
sworn. He said, “No; that he was satisfied they had spoke the truth.”

The civil transaction between Matthew Richmond and Mr. Martin was
next recurred to, but Matthew Richmond not appearing, and it being considered
that he might yet appear, the court agreed to stay proceedings
upon that subject for one hour, and go on with their other business.

The general affairs of the church in Carolina were taken into consideration,
and it was judged of some importance to insert some minute indicative
of the view in which said affairs appeared to the minds of the Presbytery’s
missionaries, while the transactions were fresh on their minds. It
was, therefore, on motion, unanimously agreed, with the hearty consent of
the Presbytery’s missionaries, that from the general discreet and respectful
demeanor of the people here to the Presbytery, and the appearance of
religion among them, that they are deserving of the Presbytery’s most
attentive consideration, and that not a moment should be lost in affording
them what efficient and permanent aid can be granted for the carrying on
the interests of religion among them, and cherishing the submissive and
orderly disposition which they have manifested to the cause of reformation
in the hands of the Reformed Presbytery in North America.

The committee finding it impossible longer to delay their proceedings in
the case of the Rev. Mr. Wm. Martin, proceeded to inquire under what
form they would sum up all the evidence in the committee’s possession;
when it was unanimously agreed that the clerk should immediately proceed
to select out of all the different papers which have been from time to
time put into hands of the committee, such facts as are considered as
{345}
proven or confessed, rejecting all matter which seemed dubious; which was
accordingly done, and was as follows, viz: 1. That the said Rev. Wm.
Martin violently and unpresbyterially withdrew from the presbytery of
which he was a member, without any just occasion given him on the part
of said presbytery, and that at the very moment when there was abroad
against him a violent fama clamosa[16] on the score of drunkenness, and
could not be moved by any entreaty of ministers or elders to return to his
duty, and thereby dissolved the existence of the committee of the Presbytery
in South Carolina.

2. That he was some time since in a high degree of intoxication at
Chester Court House, and incapable of self-government.

3. That he sold, some time since, a negro man then in his possession,
thereby doing everything in his power to prevent himself from ever having
it in his power to liberate a poor, wretched fellow mortal, in any other
period of his life, putting this price of blood among his substance, while
he left his fellow mortal to languish out the last moments of his life under
the galling chains of slavery, without one scanty ray of hope of ever obtaining
deliverance any other way but by the hand of death; and all this
after the determination of the court and church to which he belonged had
marked African enslavement with the strongest degree of abhorrence.

4. That he violated all good Presbyterian order by judging and censuring
a woman guilty of fornication, and admitting her to church privileges,
without any orderly judicature to take cognizance of the subject.

5. At another time, at or near the house of a certain John Baily, he appeared
in such a degree of intoxication as clearly evinced his incapacity of
self-government, of agency of a Christian, and least of all, that of a minister
of the gospel.

6. Intoxication at another time, at the house of Joseph Telfair, about the
3d of February last; with the addition of falsifying on his trial on that
subject, and denying that he had drank any in said house for a year past.

By order of the committee, the clerk read the above paper by paragraphs
to Mr. Martin, to the truth of which separately he gave his consent.
He was then desired to remove out of court for a time, which having done,
the court entered upon a long and solemn consideration of the subject,
which issued at length unanimously in the determination that said Rev.
William Martin should be deposed from the whole office of the holy
ministry. He being called in, had this sentence intimated to him by the
moderator, to which, with seemingly deep humility, he consented.
{371}

THE moderator then proceeded to introduce himself to Mr. Martin, by a
detail of such affecting circumstances as seemed most likely to place his
situation in its proper light, to which he seemed throughout to pay a decent
attention. This being finished, the moderator, as the mouth of the
court, solemnly addressed God by prayer for his blessing and pity on the
present mournful occasion. Which being ended, the moderator proceeded
to pronounce, in the name of Christ, the solemn sentence of deposition upon
the said Mr. William Martin, from the exercise of the holy ministry in all
its parts. This was succeeded with such solemn admonitions as the nature
of the case seemed to require. It was also intimated to Mr. Martin, by
order of the committee, that he behooved to appear next Sabbath, in the
congregation and be solemnly rebuked for the sin and scandal apparent
in the charges, whereupon his deposition issued. It was further
agreed that said Mr. Martin cannot be admitted into private Christian
communion, until his life and conversation have for some time exhibited
real marks of penitence and amendment.

The committee finding that something yet remained to be done, in order
to carry into effect the final emancipation of the unhappy African slaves,
held by some members of this church, came to inquire what further was
requisite on that subject. It was found that there were bonds given by
the different slaveholders, to some members appointed by the committee,
by which the parties bound themselves under heavy penalties to have the
full emancipation of their slaves carried into effect as soon as it could be
positively ascertained what were the necessary formalities to be gone
through, according to the laws of Carolina made respecting that subject.
It was accordingly agreed that said bonds be in the meantime delivered
into the hands of the Rev. Thomas Donnelly, who is held responsible for
the same; and that he, the said Rev. Thomas Donnelly, John McNinch
and Robert Hemphill be appointed a committee to inquire into the peculiar
circumstances of each of the slaves to be liberated; as also into the
true legal forms of emancipation, that the instructions of the Reformed
Presbytery in purging out this accursed thing [Josh 6.18,] from among them, may be
carried into the most speedy effect; and that the Rev. Thomas Donnelly
do report to the Presbytery, by letter, with all convenient speed, the diligence
of the committee appointed to see this matter brought to its issue;
and further, that should any difficulty occur in accomplishment of said
business, which cannot now be foreseen, that then he, the said Mr. Donnelly,
shall transmit the same to the Presbytery, that advice may be given
in the premises.
{372}

The committee having reviewed their whole proceedings in Carolina, and
having made particular inquiry at the members severally, and at all interested,
whether anything yet remained which might require presbyterial
interference, and finding nothing of that nature, the committee agreed to
adjourn sine die, which the moderator did by prayer.

No. 17.

UNITY TOWNSHIP, WESTMORELAND, April 7th, 1801.

The committee of the Reformed Presbytery being met and constituted by
prayer, there sat in judicature Rev. Messrs. McKinney, Wylie and Black,
ministers, and Samuel Hays, ruling elder.

SAMUEL WYLIE, Mod’r,
JAMES MCKINNEY, Clerk.

The committee inquired what further steps were necessary to complete
the operation of the mission in which they have been engaged by the order
of the Reformed Presbytery at their last full meeting. It was accordingly
found that the only thing now foreseen, that could require a meeting of the
committee before next meeting of Presbytery, would be to do something
further towards the settlement of a minister in the congregation of New
York. And as the people of that congregation, although called upon to
furnish the committee with such necessary documents as might enable them
to proceed in that business, have failed to do so, and as there is no prospect
that said settlement could be carried into effect during the few weeks
that intervene between this time and the meeting of Presbytery, the committee
have therefore unanimously thought it their duty to stay further
proceedings on that subject until it shall be considered at a full (meeting of
Presbytery).[17]

It was represented to the committee by the Rev. (J. Black)[18] that Messrs.
McCoy and Warwick, two ministers belonging to the Associate Reformed
Synod, had declared to him their desire of joining[19] with the
Reformed Presbytery in North America, and were in readiness to discuss
any particulars necessary to said junction, when convenient. The committee,
willing to encourage all movements towards reformation, thought it
prudent to write a note to said ministers showing their willingness to cooperate
in any measures calculated to draw together in the closest unity
all men desirous to oppose the defections of the present times; whereupon
the following note was agreed upon, and a copy of it ordered to be sent to
each of the said ministers:

March 7, 1801.

Very Dear Brethren—It would be a piece of unnecessary ceremony to introduce
ourselves to you with any stiff formality. We with pleasure learn
that you are turning your eyes to the providential appearances, which
present times are presenting to our view, in relation to the low and distracted
state of the Christian church in the western world, where your lots
and ours are cast. We have no reason to doubt but your views are influenced
by a sincere regard for the glory of God in these backsliding
times. Unto this charitable opinion we are the more easily induced, from
a consideration of the general terms on which you propose to regulate
your religious and ecclesiastical conduct, as the same have been laid before
us.

Dear friends, there is such a sameness in these your principles with those
{373}
professed by the Reformed Presbytery in North America, that it would be
exceedingly strange if, in detailing the fair and genuine operation of these
principles, there should remain any grounds for keeping you and us in a
state of ecclesiastical separation.

Dear brethren, we need not point to you the need there is at present for
a cordial and candid understanding being established among those who
are in earnest in the work of reformation. We accordingly (each)[20] give
you the most solemn assurances, that we are ready, at any moment that
may appear convenient for all parties, to enter into the most explicit, and
we hope friendly discussions on any subjects that may be supposed implicated
in the establishment of a lasting union between you and us in the
prosecution of the great ends of the ministry of reconciliation. We persuade
ourselves, should anything retard or finally disappoint our present
hopes on that subject, the fault will not be ours. We shall, therefore, with
cheerfulness correspond with you both, or either of you, by letters or by
personal conversation, and shall endeavor to embrace the earliest opportunity
of holding a meeting so convenient to you that your attendance may
be expected, with as little inconveniency to you as possible.

As our brother, the Rev. Mr. John Black, lies most convenient to you,
we shall be happy through him to receive any communications on the subject
of our mutual friendships with which you shall be pleased to favor us.
In the meantime wishing you all (Christian)[21] comfort, we remain your
most sincere well-wishers,

The committee are agreed from the (report concerning)[23] Baltimore, it is
proper to pay (some attention to that) place, do accordingly appoint Mr.
(McKinney on) his way home from this place (to spend a Sabbath) at
Conococheague, and then to pro(ceed to Baltimore) and spend one or two
Sabbaths (in that place, as he) may see convenient, and that (if Providence)
shall permit it, that he spend (one Sabbath in New York), and another at
Walkil before (next meeting of) Presbytery.

It is agreed that Mr. Wylie have (the call)[24] from the people in the back
part of (Pennsylvania) as a colleague with Rev. Mr. Black, and that (as
he has not) yet had so much time as would be necessary to give him a sufficient
acquaintance with said congregation, for the purpose of making up
his mind in regard to his acceptance of said call, shall be allowed to spend
what time he can between this and next Presbytery in getting a further
acquaintance with said people, with this limitation, however, that he shall
reserve for himself, besides the necessary time for journeyings (from this
place to Philadelphia) ——— Sabbath for ——— the Federal[25] city,
two Sabbaths for ———, and one for Philadelphia.

(Inasmuch as the) committee have received information of a (number of
people at) Buffalo Valley, in Northumberland (county, Pennsylvania), who
desire supplies from (the Reformed Presbytery), and in order to comply
{374}
with (the desires of these people) Messrs. Black and Wylie shall (have some
discretion)ary power, as they may see (convenient) to accommodate their
motions to the (next meeting of) Presbytery, so that one or other of said
(ministers) shall visit these people on their way (through the form)er State
to the Presbytery at their first meeting.

The committee appointed the Rev. John Black to go forward and
(preach) at Philadelphia, and if it be found advisable, to moderate a call.
But in this he is to have some discretionary power, which is to be guided
by what advice he may receive from Mr. McKinney, and what further information
he may receive from said people when he shall be among them.

[ No. 18. ]

COLDENHAM, JULY 3, 1801.

PURSUANT to the appointment of Presbytery at last meeting, the committee
met and constituted by prayer. Messrs. John Black, William Gibson
and Samuel B. Wylie, ministers; Andrew Gifford and Robert Beatty,
ruling elders. Rev. John Black, moderator; Samuel B. Wylie, clerk.

1. After reading the minutes respecting the constitution of the committee,
the business for which the session had been appointed, viz., for settling the
affairs of the congregations of York and Wallkill, was inquired into and
sanctioned by the court. And on the article of slavery, Mr. Beatty promised
to have the freedom of the three negroes belonging to him registered
in the county court, as soon as may be, viz., Sally and Candace, at the age
of 25 years, and Dick, at the age of 28.

2. The call moderated according to appointment, by Rev. John Black, was
presented to Mr. McLeod, and accepted by him upon the express condition
that three years hereafter he was at liberty to accept of any one of these
congregations, or none, as he thought proper. This was agreed to by the
court. The committee then assigned Mr. McLeod discourses for trial, from
the following scriptures, viz., for sermon, Rev. 11:3; and for lecture, Rom.
13:1-5, inclusive.

There was a motion then made to move to the meeting house, for to deliver
the discourses, which was done; and the discourses were approved of
with some animadversions, and ordination announced for Monday following.
The committee then adjourned till Monday next, 9 o’clock, A.M.[26]

6.
The original transcriber, D.S.F., notes that he was uncertain about the reading,
and could only conjecture, “which may then seem to be necessary.”

7.
Further details may be found in the records of the Covenanter fellowship societies
which were transcribed by Reid W. Stewart, Ph. D. and published as
“The Minutes of the Correspondent [Societies] May, 1780 to February, 1809,” pp. 24-27.—JTK.

16.
Fama Clamosa: A phrase from Scottish Church Law referring to a report of scandalous conduct
of common notoriety. Individuals affected by a fama clamosa have such a reputation
that it is either necessary that they clear themselves thereof, or else bear
their bad character with its consequences.—JTKer.

17.
The words in parenthesis supplied for words lost in the last line of the manuscript. D.S.F.

19.
Joining? D.S.F. — The statement following (above) does suggest Alexander McCoy and Robert Warwick
were contemplating union with the Reformed Presbyterian Church even at this early period.
They had already constituted the Reformed Dissenting Presbytery, and in the years to follow
would publish their own Testimony, just as the Reformed Presbyterians. The character
and doctrine were not identical, but the Reformed Dissenting Presbytery harmonized with
R.P. principles on the magistrate and political dissent more than did the Associate or
Associate Reformed churches. Nevertheless, when, in 1804, a paper was presented before
the Reformed Presbytery, containing a proposal from the Reformed Dissenting Presbytery, for union
with the Reformed Presbytery, the latter Presbytery determined that they “cannot admit
the members of the Reformed Dissenting Presbytery, on the grounds specified in that paper.”
Considering that the practice of political dissent was the great difference at this time,
there is in this a clear demonstration of the nature of the RPCNA’s original attachment
to the doctrine and practice of political dissent. This offers a substantial refutation
of the claims of New Lights in later years, who tried to minimize what the original stand of the
church had been. For later history of the Reformed Dissenting Presbytery, see pages 196-199
of the Reformed Presbyterian Magazine for 1851.—JTKer.

25.
This seems to be the reading, but I can scarcely think that he would go so much
out of his way. D.S.F.

26.
The records for this last meeting of committee were printed in the August 1874
issue of the Reformed Presbyterian and Covenanter, and are followed by
minutes of a pro re nata meeting of presbytery, as well as other committee
and presbytery records.—JTKer.